FSD Purchase Option Ends February 14
Tesla is making a big change to how it sells its Full Self-Driving system. CEO Elon Musk announced that starting February 14, Tesla will no longer offer FSD as a one-time purchase. Instead, customers will only be able to access the system through a monthly $99 subscription.
Previously, FSD could be bought outright for $8,000 in the U.S., down from a peak of $15,000 just a few years ago. That option will now disappear completely.
From Asset to Service
Musk has long described FSD as an “appreciating asset.” He encouraged early buyers to lock in pricing, promising future capabilities and even the potential to earn money through Tesla’s future robotaxi network.
Now, with that vision still far from reality, Tesla is pivoting. By switching to subscriptions, the company is likely aiming for more predictable revenue and faster adoption numbers.
Financial Pressure May Be a Factor
The move comes as Tesla faces pressure from slipping sales and rising competition. In Q4 2025, Tesla’s deliveries dropped over 15% year-over-year. Musk’s recently approved pay package is also tied to hitting big targets — including growing the FSD subscriber base to 10 million users.
Removing the one-time payment could help drive up those numbers fast.
FSD Still Requires Driver Supervision
Despite its name, FSD is not fully autonomous. Tesla uses it in two versions — “Supervised” for customers and an “unsupervised” variant for internal use. The system assists with city driving, but drivers must stay alert and ready to take control at any moment.
Regulators continue to investigate Tesla’s marketing and safety practices surrounding the system.
What This Means for Drivers
If you already bought FSD, you’re unaffected. But new Tesla buyers after February 14 will have no option but to subscribe. And older cars may need costly hardware upgrades to run the latest version.
